The Los Angeles Rams opened their season against the Houston Texans on Sunday with plenty of eyes on Matthew Stafford’s health. But it was his top target, Puka Nacua, who provided the first injury scare of the year.
Early in the first quarter, Nacua left the game after taking a hit that left him with a bleeding eye. Trainers evaluated him for a concussion, and the Rams’ official account announced he was “questionable to return.”
Minutes later, however, it was reported that Nacua was back on the field.
Rams’ WR Returns After Concussion Scare
Get your Puka-Flex T-Shirt Here
Before exiting, the second-year receiver had three catches for 23 yards, leading the Rams’ offense. His absence was felt immediately as Houston marched down the field to take a 6-0 lead. When the Rams returned to the field, Nacua rejoined the offense—this time wearing a large bandage but still making plays, including a 19-yard catch from Stafford.
Nacua enters 2025 as the Rams’ undisputed No. 1 wide receiver after the departure of Cooper Kupp. While Los Angeles added veteran Davante Adams, Nacua’s chemistry with Stafford makes him the focal point of the passing game. Losing him, even briefly, would have been a major blow for a Rams team trying to reestablish itself as a contender.
After a record-breaking rookie campaign, Nacua’s sophomore season was cut short to just 11 games due to injuries. His ability to stay healthy in 2025 is central to the Rams’ hopes of returning to the postseason and competing for the NFC West crown.
For now, the Rams can breathe a sigh of relief. Their young star is back on the field, and Stafford once again has his most reliable target in the lineup as Los Angeles looks to outlast the Texans in Week 1.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Rams YouTube Channel